Components of Homeostatic Systems Quiz

Study Notes

Homeostatic Systems

A homeostatic system consists of three components: receptor, control center, and effector.
The receptor detects changes in a variable (stimulus), the control center interprets the input and initiates changes through the effector.
The nervous system provides a quicker response, while the endocrine response is more sustained.

Homeostatic System Characteristics

Dynamic system with a set point and a normal range for variables.
Regulated through negative feedback to maintain homeostasis.
If the system fails, homeostatic imbalance or disease results.

Normal Ranges for Homeostatic Variables

Body temperature: 98.6°F.
Blood glucose: 80–110 mg/dL.
Blood pressure: 90–120/60–80 mm Hg.

Physiology

Subdisciplines of physiology include cardiovascular physiology, neurophysiology, respiratory physiology, reproductive physiology, and pathophysiology.
Physiologists examine the function of body structures, focusing on the molecular and cellular level.

Divisions of Physiology

Pathologic anatomy examines macroscopic and microscopic anatomic changes resulting from disease.
Radiographic anatomy investigates internal structures visualized by scanning procedures.

Matter, Energy, and Chemical Reactions

Matter is made up of atoms, which are the smallest unit of matter.
Inorganic compounds have 0 or 1 carbon atoms (e.g., NaCl, H2O, CO2).
Organic compounds contain 2 or more carbon atoms (e.g., C6H12O6).

Properties of Water

Solubility: many substances dissolve in water.
Reactivity: water permits chemical reactions and participates in some reactions.
High heat capacity: water can absorb and retain heat.
Lubrication: water reduces friction between opposing surfaces.

Acids and Bases

Acids dissociate in water to produce H+ and an anion (proton donor).
Bases accept H+ when added to a solution (proton acceptor).

Monomers and Polymers

Monomers: simple forms of organic compounds.
Polymers: complex forms of organic compounds.

Amino Acid Chains

Amino acid monomers are joined together by chemical bonds (peptide bonds).
Dipeptides, tripeptides, or polypeptides are formed.
Amino acid chains longer than about 100 amino acids are called proteins (e.g., hemoglobin, keratin).

Nucleic Acids

DNA and RNA store and process information at the molecular level inside cells.
DNA and RNA are made up of chains of monomers known as nucleotides.
Nucleotides are composed of three molecules: a pentose sugar, a single nitrogenous base, and a phosphate group.

Description

Test your knowledge on the three main components of homeostatic systems: Receptor, Control Center, and Effector. Learn how the nervous system and endocrine system play a role in maintaining internal balance through examples like blood pressure regulation and calcium level control.